Case Report: Sexual Cognitive Therapy for Patients Diagnosed With Erectile Dysfunction Associated With Obsessive Compulsive Disorder

V. S. A. Mendes

Erectile Dysfunction; Obsessive Compulsive Disorder; Sexual Cognitive Therapy; Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy

Erectile Dysfunction (ED) and Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD) can significantly impair an individual's quality of life, affecting sexual functioning and mental health. Understanding the interplay between these conditions is essential for developing effective therapeutic interventions. To report the efficacy of Sexual Cognitive Therapy in treating a patient with comorbid ED and OCD. Case Presentation: A 20-year-old cisgender heterosexual male presented with difficulties in achieving and maintaining an erection, feelings of failure in sexual and academic domains, and anxious symptoms. The patient had a family history of OCD and generalized anxiety disorder. Initial diagnostic hypotheses included erectile dysfunction and anxious symptoms, later confirmed as OCD and ED. Intervention: The intervention comprised cognitive-behavioral techniques and specific sexual therapy strategies, including psychoeducation on sexual myths and the sexual response cycle, cognitive restructuring, mindful sex practices, and sensory focus exercises. The therapy aimed to identify and modify dysfunctional thoughts, beliefs, and behaviors contributing to sexual problems. Results: The patient exhibited significant improvement in cognitive flexibility, a reduction in OCD and ED symptoms, and increased confidence in sexual performance. He transitioned from reliance on medication (Viagra) to successful sexual activity without it. The intervention effectively addressed underlying cognitive distortions and sexual myths, contributing to overall symptom reduction and partial remission of OCD. Conclusions: This case report demonstrates that Sexual Cognitive Therapy can effectively manage the complex relationship between ED and OCD. The patient’s progress highlights the potential of a tailored, integrative therapeutic approach for treating comorbid sexual and mental health disorders. Further studies are warranted to validate these findings and refine therapeutic strategies for similar cases.

Carvalho, A. C., & Sardinha, A. (2017). Terapia Cognitiva Sexual: Uma proposta integrative na psicoterapia da sexualidade. Editora Cognitiva